As expected, no Sounders named to all-star gameday roster

MLS All-Star coach Hans Backe named his 22-man gameday roster on Monday for a July 27 exhibition against Manchester United at Red Bull Arena.

As expected, no Sounders were on the squad. Seattle will play a CONCACAF Champions League play-in game in Panama on July 26, meaning players likely won’t be available the following day.

Goalkeeper Kasey Keller was named to the MLS All-Star First XI last week, but was not on the gameday roster. The Sounders have left the possibility open that Keller could still participate.

Due to league rules, a total of 32 all-stars must be named. A total of 26 already have, meaning some Sounders could still get recognition as the six remaining inactives. Keller, Fredy Montero and Freddie Ljungberg were all named inactive all-stars last year. Certainly Osvaldo Alonso and others have to be in the mix.

“I think we have some (deserving players),” said coach Sigi Schmid. “I haven’t seen the list so I can’t comment. I think obviously the player and the club should be able to deal with the conflict if there’s a conflict. If a guy’s deserving, he should get selected.”